Cyber Security

Cyber Essentials Certification

Get certified with expert guidance

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that empowers all kinds of businesses to take charge of their cyber security. 

By learning and applying this simple, powerful security framework, you can keep your business protected from most common cyber threats.

The Cyber Essentials scheme is delivered by the IASME Consortium. IASME also maintains a directory of all Cyber Essentials certified businesses. Any business that obtains the certification can be included.

If the idea of getting certified seems daunting, OfficeTek can help. For a fixed monthly fee, our certified cyber security experts will be at your disposal to make sure you pass with flying colours, first time round.

Cyber Essentials Certification

The process for getting Cyber Essentials certified is surprisingly simple.

1

First, our cyber expert team helps you to identify and implement any changes you need to make, in order to meet the Cyber Essentials standard. We’ll work closely with you for as long as it takes to bring your entire cyber security system up to scratch – and keep it there.

2

When we’re 100% certain that the standards have been met, we’ll complete the self-assessment paperwork for you. A few days later, you’ll be notified that you’ve passed! Your business can be included in the IASME directory, and you can display the Cyber Essentials logo on your website.

3

Once you’re certified, your present and future clients can rest assured that you’re informed about cyber security and committed to keeping their data safe. And you can relax, too, knowing that you have an excellent security system in place.

4

Of course, certification isn’t the end of the road. The cyber security landscape is constantly evolving, and new threats emerge every day. But there’s no need to fear: our experts will continue to work with you to ensure that your system stays safe and compliant with the Cyber Essentials framework. We’ll carry out the required audits and make sure you can easily renew your certification when the time comes.

Cyber Essentials Certification

Cyber Essentials certification is a key asset for your business, and it’s important to get every aspect right.

Secure Configuration

All software and devices in your network should be securely configured to prevent unauthorised access and to defend against malware. They should not have any unnecessary software installed. All default passwords should have been changed to strong passwords that cannot be guessed or decoded – these should be updated periodically.

Firewalls

Your business’s network should be protected from internet threats by a secure, regularly updated firewall. Access to the firewall’s administrative interface should be controlled by whitelisting or two-factor authentication.

User Access Controls

User accounts should be correctly managed to prevent all unauthorised access to your business’s data. Each user should have a unique ID and a strong password. Administrator status should be granted to a limited number of users only, and strictly on the basis of need.

Patch Management

Updates and patches should be applied to your software and devices as soon as they are available. Devices should be replaced when they can no longer be updated to the most recent operating system. Software must be supported and properly licensed.

Malware Protection

Servers and devices must be protected by a current anti-malware solution, updated daily. If using software, web pages and downloaded files should be scanned automatically, and access to malicious websites should be blocked. Whitelisting (only allowing certain applications) and sandboxing (running unknown code in an isolated environment) are also acceptable solutions.

Cyber Essentials Certification

Benefits of certification

Backed by the NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre), Cyber Essentials certification is highly beneficial to your business. Here are just a few of the plus points:

Reassure your customers

Servers and devices must be protected by a current anti-malware solution, updated daily. If using software, web pages and downloaded files should be scanned automatically, and access to malicious websites should be blocked. Whitelisting (only allowing certain applications) and sandboxing (running unknown code in an isolated environment) are also acceptable solutions.

New business

Many major clients, especially those in the government and defence sectors, require contractors to be Cyber Essentials certified. Being listed in the IASME directory can bring you to their attention.

You’re in charge

Cyber Essentials puts you in control of your business’s security while providing a simple, transparent framework for action.

Data protection

The Cyber Essentials framework is good data protection practice, and can serve as evidence that your business is working to be GDPR compliant.

Deter the bad guys

The Cyber Essentials logo is a sign that you know how cyber security works and have safeguards in place. You’ll be a much less appealing target to cybercriminals.

Keeping your system updated

Retaining your certification means keeping your system updated. It’s a simple and rewarding way to make sure your cyber security policy continues serving your business well into the future.

Get in touch

Everything you need, including the cost of accreditation, is covered by our monthly fixed fee. There are no hidden charges and no unexpected fees. Why hesitate?

If you’re interested in becoming Cyber Essentials certified or would like to explore the benefits for your business, just send a message or set up a free 15-minute Discovery Call via our contact page.

Contact us
Here to support you

Let’s find out if we are the right fit
-Try our 3 step process

1.

Book your call

We’ll talk to you, your team and build a clear picture of how your business operates.

2.

We analyse

We’ll check how your existing system is working for you and identify anything that’s slowing you down.

3.

We’ll present

We’ll present all our findings clearly and outline any areas for improvement- with no obligation.

What our clients think

Since the National lockdown OfficeTek have made sure to advise us about the ways they are able to support our organisation during this challenging period while we are trying to maintain our services. We work with people recovering from mental illness and their families. As such we are regarded as Keyworkers and it has been essential for us to revise our current offer to maintain continued support for the beneficiaries of our services. OfficeTek have maintained their service and the availability of their team who have been on hand to support our IT issues during this difficult time. OfficeTek have maintained their high levels of support they offer us but they have also supplied a number of advisory communications to support our susceptibility to online fraudsters and scams coupled with additional support during this period where work from home time has increased. The service we have received from OfficeTek has always been delivered to a high and professional standard and the Covid-19 outbreak has not dented their ability to deliver and meet our sometimes trying needs!
Patricia Johnson, Chief Executive Officer
I am really delighted to be giving this testimonial for OfficeTek at this very crucial time in this period of The Pandemic. The Management and Office Staff of OfficeTek have been very invaluable in helping me and many of our office staff in working safely from remote locations prior to and most especially during this Pandemic. The security of our data has been enhanced through various measures they have put in place, for which we are extremely thankful. Their response time has been amazing. Their seamless communication skills is great. I can confidently, and I am sure all our other staff as well recommend the services of OfficeTek without any reservations
Dr Kay Adenekan, Director - SureCare Birmingham
Andy and the Team at Office-Tek are very helpful, thorough and diligent. I have been using their support services for over 10years now and would gladly recommend them. During the lockdown, Andy and his team have offered uninterrupted support and made the transition of working from home effortless. I can say that I feel valued as a customer, and can rely on the team at Office-Tek to resolve any issues I am having efficiently and effectively. I believe that the support we are offered all year round is consistent and value for money. Andy and his team pride themselves in their work.
Amy Tipler, Office Manager
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